Newport Dunes Welcomes Back Waterfront Food and Wine Festival

The Pacific Wine & Food Classic is set to make a comeback at the Newport Dunes Waterfront Resort next month, featuring exciting new offerings, according to the event organizers.

This yearly celebration highlights local culinary talents alongside prominent wine and spirits companies. The upcoming event, scheduled for September 21, boasts a lineup of 40 culinary establishments and a tasting experience of 75 different kinds of beers, wines, cocktails, and mocktails, courtesy of over a dozen spirit companies.

This festival provides an opportunity for attendees to explore top-tier dining options throughout Orange County, noted Pamela Waitt, the founder of the Pacific Wine & Food Classic and president of the O.C. Restaurant Association.

“The Pacific Wine & Food Classic draws enthusiasts and beginners alike from across Southern California to revel in the exceptional food and drink culture of Orange County,” stated Waitt.

This year’s lineup of chefs features Vincent Espinoza, top chef at Xacalli in Silverado; Rich Mead, culinary leader at Farmhouse at Roger’s Gardens; Matthew Luna, head chef at Five Crowns & SideDoor in Corona Del Mar; and Alan Sanz, head chef at Maizano, situated in Costa Mesa’s Mercado González. Highlights will include offerings from establishments such as Gus’s World Famous Fried Chicken, Lido Bottle Works, Lōrea, the Yellow Chilli, and Wahoo’s Fish Taco.

Waitt expressed her enthusiasm for both new and returning guests to discover the event’s new features. “We’re right in the heart of a vibrant and burgeoning culinary landscape, and attendees from previous years will encounter new eateries, as well as a variety of wines, beers, and spirits.”

The affair will provide a unique chance for those present to try offerings from 2024 James Beard Award nominee and 2024 TOTCF Spirited Award-winner Strong Water Anaheim, a tiki bar noted for its nautical theme that has gained immense popularity and limited seating.

Lola’s By MFK, a restaurant in Anaheim known for its Filipino brunch, will serve a traditional spit-roasted whole pig lechon at the event.

New to the event will be a Grand Wine Pavilion, presented by San Luis Obispo Wine Collective, featuring wines from San Luis Obispo Coast Wine Collective, as well as grilled skewers by Sweetgreens and fresh cookies, pastries and more from Scratch Bakery.

The red carpet will feature a living produce wall made entirely of fresh fruits and vegetables created by Melissa’s Produce as both an art installation and backdrop for selfies and group photos.

Also provided by Melissa’s Produce, the Taco Garden will return to this year’s event, with the addition of a new fresh salsa and guacamole bar.

Waitt mentioned that guests can expect a few fun surprises along the way.

Pacific Wine & Food Classic will take place at Newport Dunes Waterfront Resort, located at 1131 Back Bay Drive, Newport Beach. General admission tickets for entrance at 2 p.m. are priced at $199, while early entrance tickets for entrance at 1p.m. are priced at $250. Guests must be age 21 and older with valid ID to attend. For tickets visit pacificwineandfood.com.

About the Author: Chris Lehoux

Meet Chris Lehoux, an experienced wine connoisseur and dedicated blogger with a deep passion for all things wine-related. With years of expertise in the industry, Chris shares insightful wine reviews, valuable wine tasting tips, expert pairing advice, and captivating tales of vineyard visits. Join Chris on a journey through the world of wine, where every sip is an adventure waiting to be savored!